Ricky Colquitt is Extension Coorindator for Shelby
County. He says farmers have been feeding with hay for six weeks now.

“With the rain missing, we’re also missing a cutting, if
not two cuttings of hay that would be stored for winter use,” Colquitt
explained.

Farmers wouldn’t normally start feeding with this hay for
another month. Beginning early will impact the rest of the year.

“You would typically feed until the second week of
March,” explained Deloach. “The grass starts putting out. There’s not going to
be enough quantity to get you through the winter, which means people are going
to start selling their cows. If they can find hay, they’ll buy some if they can
afford it.”

“Long term impact? Once again, back to cost of
production,” said Colquitt. “Profitability’s going to be knocked in the head if
there’s any to be made this year, even with the livestock assistance program
they’re now eligible for. That will not even come close to covering their
losses.”

“If those agricultural producers aren’t deriving that
income, they can’t reinvest it in that community,” added Colquitt...